since my daughter was born. My tank needs hydro, my regs all need service, and I bet my BC needs work too from being stored in the shed for so long. My 7mm wet suit is likely to be a little tight since I have gaind a few pounds since becomming a father. Here is my dillema, Should I spring for the $$ to hydro the tank, service the regs, repair the BC and, if possible, alter the wetsuit? Or, since money is really tight for me and it's hard to justify this expense for $150+ diving trips a couple of times a year, should I sell the lot (1999 vintage stuff, scuba pro regs, mares guardian computer), pay down a credit card or two, and get new gear when my daughter is old enough to have interest and learn? What would you do?
1
quero
Mark, does it have to be all or nothing? Are you considering diving/no diving as well as keeping gear/selling gear? I faced a similar dilemma when I moved from a part of the world where skiing was an important aspect of my life to a part of the world near the equator--what should I do with my skis/boots/poles/outerwear? I really hated the idea of not skiing once in a while should the opportunity present itself, so I kept my clothing because it's hard to rent, and I kept boots because I know I won't like rental boots and would be much less likely to ski if I had to rent them. So the question for you might become one of keeping what you absolutely cannot bear to rent as well as what is difficult to rent and getting the rest serviced when and if you get a chance to dive.
2
stevenl
For that old equipment you will hardly get anything, so there really is no point in selling. So either keep it and have it serviced before you use it again, or give it away to someone.
4
nabanga
If you are only having a couple of weekends a year, I would keep your BC and reg, and ditch the tanks.This is on the basis that the annual visual inspection and bi-annual hydro test is a lot more expensive than hiring tanks 4 days a year. Also, second hand tanks still sell well - in NZ they go for 40-50% new price.
Your BC on the other hand can be serviced by yourself easily enough, and second hand prices aren't very good. I would always keep my own reg as you then know its service history - there are some dodgy hire regs around.
5
markmark
Yup. The tanks are going onto craigslist tomorrow. Lately, I've only been using it to blow up those long skinny ballons for my daughter.
I like my reg too, I have one of those hot water mouldable mouth pieces on it.
OH, I just had a brain fart! I remember I called the dive shop a while ago last time my wife complained, and they would consider trading the tanks for a discount on servicing my regs. Think I might go that route if they are still willing.....
6
stevenl
"Lately, I've only been using it to blow up those long skinny ballons for my daughter. "
Yes, I sometimes take a tank home for the same purpose (except it is for my boy).
If they trade for a discount I would reconsider. It should at least be for a free service, and probably some money on the side going your direction.
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